LUNCH BOX NOTES
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Making back-to-school special with a cute and thoughtful lunch always adds an extra touch of excitement for my kids. I usually put some type of treat for the first day and a cute note. This year I created a FREE printable for “Lunch box notes” that you can use for your child’s lunch box on the first day and throughout the year.
I would love to see all your cute lunches, so if you post them on social make sure to tag me @homeofuandme.
Here are some kid-friendly lunch box ideas for back to school that are nutritious, easy to prepare, and fun to eat:
1. Creative Sandwiches:
Mini Sandwiches: Use cookie cutters to create fun shapes with bread, turkey or ham, cheese, and veggies.
PB&J Roll-Ups: Spread peanut butter and jelly on a tortilla, roll it up, and slice into pinwheels.
2. Wraps and Roll-Ups:
Veggie & Cream Cheese Wrap: Whole wheat tortilla with cream cheese, shredded carrots, spinach, and cucumber slices.
Chicken Caesar Wrap: Grilled chicken strips, romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing in a tortilla.
3. Bento-Style Lunches:
Fruit and Cheese Box: Sliced apples, cheese cubes, whole grain crackers, and a handful of grapes.
Protein & Veggie Box: Chicken nuggets or your Childs favorite deli meat, baby carrots with ranch dip, and a small portion of pasta salad.
4. Finger Foods and Snacks:
Veggie Sticks and Hummus: Carrot, celery, and bell pepper sticks with a side of hummus.
Cheese and Crackers: Whole grain crackers with slices of cheese and a few slices of deli meat.
5. Fun and Healthy Dips:
Fruit Dip: Your Childs favorite yogurt, paired with apple slices and strawberries.
Veggie Dip: Greek yogurt with ranch seasoning, served with a variety of fresh veggies.
6. Breakfast for Lunch:
Pancake Sandwiches: Whole grain pancakes with fruit spread and a thin layer of peanut butter or cream cheese.
7. DIY Lunchables:
Build-Your-Own Pita Pockets: Whole wheat pita bread, shredded cheese, deli meat, and a small container of lettuce or spinach.
DIY Pizza Kit: Whole grain pita bread, a small container of tomato sauce, shredded cheese, and mini toppings like pepperoni or bell peppers.
8. Thermos-Friendly Meals:
Soup: A small thermos filled with chicken noodle soup, vegetable soup, or a mild chili.
Mac & Cheese: Homemade mac and cheese in a thermos to keep it warm until lunchtime.
9. Sweet Treats and Add-Ons:
Fruit Kabobs: Skewers with chunks of fruit like melon, grapes, and berries.
Yogurt Parfait: Layers of Greek yogurt, fresh fruit, and granola in a small container.
Mini Candies: I bought tiny little cellophane, self sealing bags and added a couple candy pieces to it. (as a once a week treat)
These ideas aim to provide a balance of nutrition and fun to keep kids satisfied and energized throughout their school day.
